In ABA therapy, behaviors typically fall into one (or more) of the following four functions:

1. Attention

Some behaviors occur to gain attention from others. This attention may be positive (praise, interaction) or negative (reprimands, reactions).

Example:
A child may yell or throw objects to get a parent or teacher to respond.

ABA Strategy:
Therapists teach appropriate ways to request attention, such as using words, AAC, PECS, or tapping a shoulder. Positive attention is then reinforced when the child uses these skills.

2. Escape or Avoidance

Behaviors can also serve the function of escaping or avoiding a task, demand, or situation that feels difficult or overwhelming.

Example:
A child may refuse to complete homework or engage in challenging behaviors to avoid a non-preferred activity.

ABA Strategy:
ABA therapy focuses on teaching coping skills, task tolerance, and appropriate ways to request breaks. Tasks are broken into smaller, manageable steps to reduce frustration.

3. Access to Tangibles

Some behaviors occur to gain access to a preferred item or activity, such as a toy, tablet, or snack.

Example:
A child may cry or hit when a preferred item is taken away.

ABA Strategy:
Therapists teach children how to appropriately request items and wait their turn. Reinforcement is provided when the child uses functional communication instead of challenging behavior.

4. Sensory or Automatic Reinforcement

Some behaviors are maintained by sensory input and do not rely on others’ reactions. These behaviors feel good or regulate the body in some way.

Example:
Hand-flapping, rocking, or humming may provide calming or stimulating sensory input.

ABA Strategy:
Rather than eliminating sensory behaviors, ABA therapy focuses on understanding the sensory need and teaching alternative ways to meet that need safely and appropriately.

Why Behaviors Are “Unseen”

The function of behavior is often called “unseen” because it’s not always obvious by simply observing the behavior. Two children may engage in the same behavior for completely different reasons.

That’s why ABA therapy emphasizes data collection, observation, and collaboration with families. At Breakthrough ABA, understanding the why allows us to design interventions that are respectful, effective, and individualized.

How Understanding Function Leads to Positive Change

When children are taught replacement behaviors that serve the same function as the challenging behavior, lasting change is more likely to occur. This approach reduces frustration, increases communication, and supports emotional regulation.

Families often see improvements not just in behavior, but in overall confidence and independence.

Breakthrough ABA: Looking Beyond Behavior in Cypress, Texas

At Breakthrough ABA, we believe that behavior is communication. By understanding the four functions of behavior, we help children and families move beyond surface-level challenges toward meaningful growth.

Through in-home and in-clinic ABA therapy in Cypress, TX, our compassionate team partners with families to uncover the “why” behind behavior and build skills that support long-term success.

Contact Breakthrough ABA today to learn how understanding the function of behavior can transform your child’s ABA therapy journey.